Composition for inhalation therapy and methods for use

Abstract

A composition for providing aromatherapy, and in particular, symptomatic relief of nasal and sinus congestion is provided in unit dosage format. The composition includes a penetrating aromatic vapor whose release from a preparation of warm water is augmented by an effervescent component which reacts in the warm water to promote release of the aromatic fragrance, or sustained over time by tableting or gelatin encapsulation. As the fragrance is inhaled, symptomatic relief is obtained. The composition of matter may be rendered ingestible, so that the warm water containing the composition is consumed following inhalation. In preferred embodiments, the release of the penetrating aromatic fragrance persists over time.

1. An aromatherapy composition of matter free of exothermic reactants, comprising:
 an effective amount of a penetrating aromatic fragrance, wherein said fragrance is menthol; 
 and wherein said composition further comprises an effervescent component which, when solubilized in a warm aqueous liquid, releasing said penetrating aromatic fragrance from a surface of said liquid, whereby on introduction of said composition of matter, which is in a single dosage form, into said liquid, said effervescing component effervesces, and said penetrating aromatic fragrance is released from said warm liquid in a fashion sustained over the period of use so as to provide aromatherapy to an individual in need thereof inhaling said penetrating aromatic fragrance; 
 wherein said composition is in the form of a tablet, and further comprises a tablet binder, which retards dissolution and sustains release of said penetrating aromatic fragrance, wherein said tablet is in the form of a compressed material having a density in excess of 1.4 g/cc. 
 
     
     
       2. The composition of  claim 1 , wherein said tablet has been tableted so as to retard release of said penetrating aromatic fragrance over the period of use.